DIY: Nebraska String Art

 I couldn't wait to start this project since I saw it on Pinterest....thought about ordering it via Etsy, but realized it was a simple technique to do.  So while on vacation, I completed one of my parents' Christmas present (yes they have already seen it)

Using a wood canvas board, I applied 3 coats with a red Glossy Craft Paint (going for the red/white Husker colors) + printed out a state map for a guideline.

I then placed the outline on top the wood, and started nailing around the perimeter...and nailing...and nailing.  As you can see the edge has a lot more nails due to all the movement.

 

I then began to trace a heart around Douglas county.  I debated about placing it partially outside the main outline, but realized the heart would not have the same effect when stringing.

 

And then....RIPPPPPP...the paper came off (with a few tweaks with some tweezers to remove all paper scraps)

As you can see, parts of the nails went through the wood, I didn't mind this aspect as it was lower than the edges.  My mom suggested placing cardboard on the back for padding..great idea!!

Then the stringing began by tying a knot in the lower right hand corner and working clockwise around, looping each string around the heart. 

Due to some nails being to close together, I grouped them together.

I did have to restart a few times as the string broke.:(

 

I love the final outlook, and I hope they do too.  I think maybe some script or a quote on top or bottom would complete it such as home (sweet) home.

30 DAYS OF THANKFUL: 2013

Each day I am thankful for many things, but in November, I decided to document it using a digital template by Cathy Zielske which I will also use in my Project Life folder (adding embellishments of course).  Enjoy!

 

 

2013 AUTUMN JOURNAL: Watercolor Leaves

Last year, I created a Nature Journal for Junelle Jacobsen's online class.  It was so much fun, I decided to add a page with big leaves.  This page started out with gesso over a leaf texture plate.  It gave the basical outline to start.

I added small photo images and then started to color away with the Neocolor II.  Such fun....and you don't have to stay in the lines.  I usually just randomly apply colors in various spots...some highlights some lowlights.  And just blend the color.

When using the watercolor brush, I start with the light colors and gradually blend in the darker ones. This way, the dark doesn't over power the light. 

Added a few splotches.

Coated it with a gel medium.  I used Fluid Matte Medium, but last year, I did use Modge Podge and seemed to like it better as it gave it a bit of shine.  You need to wait a day before genly apply any medium to avoid major color runs.

Then I doodled away and of course, added my favorite little hearts near the pictures.

DIY: Painting-By-Number Train

As my addiction continues, I started making one of the pages to be put in my Winter Album.  I have several pieces of fabric to sew together, but also like implementing different materials such as upholstery samples, seed bags, paper, etc. So hence, I grabbed an old Carolina Queen paper bag I acquired at The Depot and created another paint by number train scene on it.

As you can see in the bottom of the painting, there is the word CAROLINA showing through.  I love it since NC has become my home.